23' Crocker Stone Horse Sloop (1978) - ABLE

1978 Stone Horse Sloop. Designed in 1931 by Samuel S. Crocker. Built 1978 by Edey & Duff, and this is hull #101. Presently home-ported in Newport, RI, this boat spent much of her life on Mt Desert Island Maine. The Edey & Duff boats are an interesting combination of traditional (wood) and modern (airex core) materials. Of 150 built through 1995, there are plenty still sailing. The boat is perfect for daysailing or the occasional weekend for two. It sails quite well and has a manageable sail plan with no need for winches. The cockpit is huge. The cabin boasts a small wood stove, head, sink, icebox, two comfortable molded seats, and a v-berth. The raised deck maximizes interior volume without giving the “slab-sided” look of many modern boats. The diesel pushes her along at about 4.5 knots. The fuel tank is 3 gallons and is more than adequate for coastal cruising. Water capacity is 11 gallons. I bought the boat in 2010, and have enjoyed it very much. It is easy to sail with a bunch of guests but it is also a delight to single hand. I would describe her sailing qualities as powerful but predictable. She handles very well in close quarters and light air, where she has enough sail area to be quite nimble despite her weight. On open water when things start to pick up the rig offers many options for shortening sail. I have had her out in some really sporty weather and was very impressed. It’s just a really solid, well designed boat. There is an involved and supportive owners’ organization with the aptly named Facebook page “Stone Horse Owners’ Group”.